First Australians

Daily

Explore the shared stories and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from across Australia in First Australians. Take a journey from ancient to contemporary expressions of culture in our largest gallery, across the ground and lower ground floors.

Welcome to country
2:35

First Australians includes a welcome from our Ngunnawal, Ngunawal and Ngambri traditional custodians, along with art, digital interactive and sensory displays. View transcript

First Australians explores the connectedness of communities whose diverse cultures are determined by diverse environments. Learn about enduring attachments to country, continuing artistic practices and the impact of colonisation since 1788. A large dhari (headdress) takes visitors through to our dedicated Torres Strait Islander exhibition.

Home in the Torres Strait

Lag | Meta | Aus on our lower ground floor reveals the history and vitality of Australia’s most northerly region, the Torres Strait.